Graphics and IT

Finite element analysis of compression test

Simulation: Simulate compression test of a steel specimen with the material properties, dimensions
dimensions and test parameters given below. Attention on the unit system used!

Material properties: Modulus of elasticity: 210 GPa
Poisson’s ratio: 0.3
Flow curve: 260 + 20 (ε
p
)
0.1
MPa according to Ludwik’s expression

where σ Y,0
is the initial yield stress, K and p are
the hardening exponents, and ε
p
is the equivalent plastic strain.

Dimensions: Gauge length: 50 mm
Width: 20 mm
Thickness: 2 mm

YOU ARE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE ALL QUESTIONS
PLEASE PROVIDE FULL WORKED SOLUTIONS TO ALL QUESTIONS
PLEASE ENSURE YOUR ANSWERS ARE CLEARLY PRESENTED
( )
n
f
K
p
Y,0
ε σ σ + =
Clamp (actuator)
Clamp (stationary)
Sp
eci
me
n
v

Test parameters: Bottom clamp is stationary. Velocity of the top clamp is v = 1 mm/s. Compressive
displacement of the top clamp is 5 mm.

1) Give the figures of von Mises stress distributions at 1 % and 40 % compression (of 5 mm), and
briefly discuss the differences observed [20 marks]
2) Plot and analyse the force-displacement curve for the top clamp [25 marks]
3) Briefly describe the effect of velocity of the clamp ( v) on the simulation results [10 marks]
4) Briefly discuss the eff ects of mesh (element) size on the simulation results (force -displacement
curve, von Mises stress distribution, convergence, etc.) (You might build your model with various
element sizes!) [20 marks]
5) Briefly explain the difference betwee n 2D and 3D modelling (You might build 2D and 3D models
with identical simulation parameters)